What is Earth Science? Chapter 1.1 & 1.2

Earth Science The name for all the sciences that collectively seek to understand the Earth. Geology – the study of the solid Earth Physical - Examines the materials & processes that make up the Earth Historical - establish a timeline of the changes that have occurred in the past

Earth Sciences Oceanography – the study of all aspects of the ocean Meteorology – the study of the atmosphere and the processes that produce weather and climate Astronomy – the study of the universe

Physical vs. Living Environment Physical Environment Hydrosphere – water portion Atmosphere – gaseous envelope Geosphere – solid Earth Living Environment Biosphere – all life forms on Earth (interacts with physical environment)

The Hydrosphere Oceans 97% saltwater Ice Water Vapor 3% freshwater Lakes & Rivers Groundwater

The Atmosphere protects us, keeps Earth the right temperature, and has the gases needed for life to thrive.

The Geosphere The Crust, Mantle and Core

The Biosphere Living things depend on the physical environment to sustain life Organisms help maintain and alter the physical environment

Forces affecting Earth’s Surface Constructive Build up the surface by raising the land and depositing new material Examples: Mountain building, Volcanism Destructive Wear away high points work to flatten the surface Examples: Weathering, Erosion